The past few years have seen asset managers respond to uncertain markets, shifting demographics and regulatory change with a raft of more outcome-focused, multi-asset investment options. Is the sun setting on the traditional, mixed asset approach?

As a growing organisation NEST are constantly evolving their approach and look to understand how best to service their members. This report details a variety of case studies which demonstrate positive and responsible investments, with a look to future developments within the DC landscape.

UK top property destination for IFAs

The UK is the top destination for property investment for IFAs, according to research by Reita, an awareness campaign for REITs and quoted property investment.

The figures show 38% of advisers recommend the UK for property investment. Just fewer than 30% of advisers favour the US while 22% prefer Europe and only 5% recommend other regions.

The research also shows 43% of advisers now have the appropriate FSA permission to advise on REITs, up 4% since February. A further 12% are considering extending their permissions.

More than 90% of advisers are most likely to use OEIC or UT property funds for collective investments with just less than a half choosing life and pension funds.

Patrick Sumner, head of property equities, Henderson Global Investors, says: “It is no surprise that UK investors tend to prefer their home market, despite some negative sentiment about short-term prospects. However, if a major reason for investing in property is diversification, a broader geographical distribution is likely to enhance the risk/reward profile. The fund market does not yet offer UK investors a wide selection of international property investment opportunities, and some investors may be deterred by current volatility in property shares.”

NMG Research conducted the study, which surveyed more than 200 UK based financial advisers.